Catadioptric system, apparatus, and method for producing images on a universal, head-up display

Abstract

A present novel and non-trivial system, apparatus, and method for employing a catadioptric optical system in a Head-Up Display (“HUD”) system are disclosed. A catadioptric optical module is configured to produce a large image size within a small space envelope by folding the optical path back through module and separating the paths by use of a beam splitter. Such module comprised of a beam splitter, collimating mirror, and correcting lens produces collimated beams of light from an image source providing either polarized or non-polarized beams of light. If polarized beams are provided, the module includes a quarter-wave retarder, and the configuration of the module permits the image source to provide either s-polarized or p-polarized beams. A combiner arm assembly comprising of at least one combiner receives the collimated beams, where the employment of a plurality of combiners extends the relatively small instantaneous field of view.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]This invention pertains to the field of Head-Up Displays (“HUDs”) that provide images in the field of view of a person viewing the scene outside of a vehicle such as an aircraft or automobile.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]A HUD is typically any transparent display that presents an image without obstructing the viewer's view or requiring the viewer to look away from the scene outside of a vehicle such as an aircraft or automobile while flying or driving. Initially developed for use in military aircraft, HUDs are used in commercial and private aircraft, automobiles, and other applications. HUD systems may be comprised of a plurality of components including, but not limited to, an image projection unit and a partially transparent and reflective optic commonly referred to as a combiner.[0005]In general, a HUD uses a combination of lenses to create a collimated image. Lens designs that achieve the necessary op...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012]In another embodiment, a HUD apparatus is comprised of a housing assembly containing a catadioptric optical module and attached to a combiner arm assembly. The module could be configured with an interface for receiving non-polarized beams of light, a beam splitter, and a correcting lens. Also, a the module could be configured with an interface for receiving polarized beams of light, a polarization b

Problems solved by technology

Lens designs that achieve the necessary optical performance tend to be complex and expensive, especially when the field of view (“FOV”) is high and the diameter of the lens is large.

Generally, the size, weight, and complexity of these optical systems detrimentally affect the costs for an operator to employ them.

If such s

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